“Peter Obi’s Failure to Address Party Injustice Pushed Me Out of NDC” -Awani

Politician and businessman Esimaje Awani has defected from the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) to the All Progressives Congress (APC), citing alleged injustice within the NDC and questioning Peter Obi’s leadership.

Speaking on Tuesday at the launch of the PBAT Door-to-Door Movement in Warri Federal Constituency, Awani claimed he won the NDC’s May 28, 2026 direct primary but was denied the party’s ticket despite the outcome.

He also alleged that he paid an additional ₦10.5 million during the party’s screening process beyond the official nomination fees, describing the payments as lacking transparency and having no lawful basis.

Awani said Obi’s failure to address injustice within the party influenced his decision to leave.

Explaining his move to the APC-backed PBAT Door-to-Door Movement, Awani said he believes in its leadership and vision, while crediting Government Oweizide Ekpemupolo (alias High Chief Tompolo) for inspiring the initiative.